Roche was also part of the victorious Team Saxo-Tinkoff, who won the team event.

Froome follows on from compatriot and team mate Bradley Wiggins, who sat out of this year's race for health reasons.

The 28-year-old Briton built his success on awe-inspiring attacks in the mountain climbs as well as his time-trialing ability. It quickly became clear that his rivals would have to fight for the other podium positions.

Froome sipped champagne with Team Sky principal Dave Brailsford and sports director Nicolas Portal as the peloton left the Chateau de Versailles in the late afternoon at a leisurely pace.

Quintana claimed both the polka-dot best climber's jersey and the white jersey for the best young rider.

Rodriguez became the second rider to finish on the podium on all the grand Tours (France, Spain, Italy) without actually winning one.